Greek Epic - The Iliad

This course is full. Please contact us on 0117 903 8844 to be added to the queue.

Course code: S1RS

Discover Homer's epic poem telling the tale of Achilles and Hector during the Trojan war.

when: From 22 Sep 2026 to 01 Dec 2026
Tuesday 10:00-12:00 10 weeks
Tutor: Richard Stride

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £168.00, concession fee £102.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

Homer is often cited as the foundation of Western literature. This course focuses on his exciting and romantic tale set in the Trojan War. Come and meet Achilles, Helen of Troy, Hector, Paris, Odysseus and many others.

What can students expect?

For over two thousand years people have marvelled at this story revolving around Achilles in the Trojan War. But what is the story about? Why is it famous? Each week we will look at a theme as well as working through the plot, so over the course the learner will find out about the context and construction of the work as well as discovering the story itself. Learners will be encouraged to read the text bit by bit in parallel with the course, but this is not essential.

Late starters allowed?

Yes

Previous experience required?

No

What is the progression route?

I run a range of courses on the classical world at Stoke Lodge. In the Spring term I will be running a course on Homer’s Odyssey which is, in effect, a sequel to The Iliad.

Are there any extra costs?

No

Work set between sessions?

No

Teaching method/style?

I describe my style as ‘informal lecture’. I aim to use pictures wherever possible, and I welcome interruptions, questions and digressions.

Equipment Required

Learners might want to have their own copy of The Iliad to read as the course progresses. Many translations are available, but my presentations are based on that by E.V.Rieu. Owning a copy is entirely voluntary and not a requisite part of the course.

Course Cancellations and Refunds

If we cancel your course

<ul>
<li>You will receive a full refund of course fees.</li>
<li>We are not responsible for any additional costs, such as materials already purchased.</li>
</ul>

If you cancel

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: refund minus a 20% administration fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no refund provided.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
</ul>

Refund processing

<ul>
<li>Refunds for online or telephone enrolments will be made via the original payment method within 14 days of approval. </li>
<li>If you enrolled in the office, you will need to come in with your payment card to arrange a refund.</li>
</ul>

Transfers

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: transfer minus a 10% transfer fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no transfer provided.</li>
<li>All transfers are subject to availability.</li>
<li>Transfers between Language levels may be possible with less than 7 days notice, subject to availability.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
<li>If we cancel your course, and you wish to transfer to another course this will be free of charge.</li>
</ul>

Illness and non-attendance

<ul>
<li>We recognise that illness and unforeseen circumstances may arise. However, please note that we are unable to offer refunds, credits, or transfers for missed sessions due to ill health or non-attendance.</li>
</ul>